Stop the Worry and the Fear
Anxiety: Understanding and Managing Overwhelming Worry
Does your teen seem constantly worried? Is it hard for your teen to make friends? Do you feel as if you are always battling your teen to stop being so negative? They may have anxiety that is causing them to feel and be overwhelmed. Anxiety can feel paralyzing for your teen, causing them to display depressive symptoms or even anger and defiance. Their constant worries can take over their life, making it difficult for them to engage and function daily. Anxiety is a normal reaction to stressful situations, but it becomes problematic when it interferes with daily life.
For example, a teen with test anxiety may become so worried that days before the test they begin to complain about the test, feel that they cannot sleep at night, begin having stomachaches, or even become physically ill on the day of the test. This level of anxiety can lead the teen to avoid school altogether to escape the worry and anxiety. Anxiety makes worst-case scenarios feel very real, causing emotional and physical distress. Getting your teen help will give them a chance to manage their worries and enjoy high school more without anxiety taking over their life.
“You don’t have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you.“
– Dan Millman
Common Symptoms of Adjustment Disorder
Recognizing the symptoms of adjustment disorder is the first step toward seeking help. If you or a loved one are experiencing any of the following, it may be time to consider counseling:
Difficulty Sleeping
Struggling to fall or stay asleep due to constant worry, resulting in fatigue and irritability.
Sweaty Palms
Physical signs of anxiety, such as excessive sweating, which can be uncomfortable and distracting.
School Refusal
Reluctance or refusal to attend school due to anxiety, impacting academic performance and social life.
Difficulty Concentrating
Struggling to focus on tasks or schoolwork because of anxious thoughts, leading to decreased productivity.
Racing Heartbeat
Experiencing physical symptoms like a fast heartbeat and shortness of breath, during stressful situations.
Intrusive Thoughts
Persistent, unwanted negative thoughts that interfere with daily life, causing distress and worry.
Unwilling to Engage with Others
Avoiding social interactions and isolating themselves from friends and family, leading to feelings of loneliness.
Worried Thoughts and Panic Attacks
Experiencing persistent, uncontrollable worries and sudden episodes of intense fear, making it hard to focus.
Stomachaches or Chest Pains
Physical symptoms caused by anxiety, such as gastrointestinal issues or chest discomfort, often with anxious thoughts.
Unlocking the Power of Therapy
The Impact of Counseling on Anxiety
Counseling provides a supportive environment where your teen can explore their feelings and develop strategies to manage their anxiety. Here are some of the ways counseling can assist in overcoming anxiety:
Reducing Worried Thoughts
Alleviating the intensity and frequency of anxious thoughts, helping to create a more positive mindset.
Increasing Self-Esteem
Building confidence and a positive self-image, which can reduce anxiety levels.
Learning New Coping Skills
Developing effective strategies to handle anxiety and navigate life’s challenges, improving overall resilience.
Improving Communication
Enhancing the ability to express thoughts and feelings clearly and constructively, improving interpersonal interactions.
Learning Relaxation Techniques
Developing methods to relax and manage stress more effectively, such as deep breathing and mindfulness.
Decreasing Avoidant Behaviors
Reducing tendencies to avoid situations or people that trigger anxiety, leading to better engagement in life.
Challenging Negative Self-Talk
Identifying and challenging negative thoughts and beliefs, replacing them with positive affirmations.
Improving Social Relationships
Enhancing social skills and building healthy relationships, reducing feelings of isolation.
Dedicated to Your Well-Being
Our Approach to Treating Anxiety
At Davis-Smith Mental Health, we recognize that each person’s experience with anxiety is unique. Our counseling approach is customized to address the individual needs of our clients. Our skilled therapists employ evidence-based methods to help clients tackle their challenges and develop practical solutions. We aim to foster resilience and equip clients with the tools they need to navigate life’s stresses confidently.
We understand that establishing a strong therapeutic relationship requires time and patience. Our therapists are devoted to creating a safe, welcoming space where clients can comfortably share their concerns. We progress at the client’s pace, ensuring they feel ready to delve into their issues when they are comfortable.
Collaborating to find practical and effective solutions is key to our approach. We work hand-in-hand with clients to discover strategies they feel confident implementing in their daily lives. This individualized method helps clients build the skills necessary to manage their anxiety and enhance their well-being.
Understanding and processing emotions is crucial in managing anxiety. We provide clients with the necessary time and space to explore and work through their feelings comprehensively. Addressing these issues at a comfortable pace for the client allows for meaningful progress toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
We are acutely aware of the rising levels of anxiety among children, teens, and young adults. Social media has intensified the feeling of being constantly judged, making it difficult for young people to feel secure in themselves. We focus on helping clients accept and embrace their true selves, encouraging them to understand that they are valued and accepted, even when it doesn’t feel that way.
At Davis-Smith Mental Health, our mission is to support our clients throughout their journey. We are dedicated to facilitating lasting change and helping them achieve their mental health goals. Our compassionate and personalized approach ensures that clients receive the care and support they need to thrive.
Your Path to Calm and Confidence